Farmers in southeastern Manitoba are facing one of their toughest harvests in years due to persistent rains and saturated soils. The wet conditions have made it difficult for combines and grain carts to navigate the fields, with many getting stuck in the mud. Despite the challenges, farmers like Korey Peters are pushing through, using tracks on their equipment to help navigate the wet fields. However, even with tracks, the mud is still a major problem, sticking to the equipment and requiring weeks of cleaning.
Peters, who has about 750 acres of corn and 800 acres of sunflowers still to harvest, said that the yields are helping to ease the strain. “Our first corn field hit 170 to 180 bushels an acre,” he said. “That’s phenomenal for us. Normally, we’re around 120 or 130 on dryland corn.” The good yields are making the fight through the mud worthwhile, but it’s still a frustrating and difficult task.
Many producers in the region are sharing similar stories, with strong yields lifting morale even as machines bog down. According to Manitoba Agriculture’s latest report, harvest progress as of October 20 sits at 97% complete province-wide, with corn at 71% done and sunflowers at 37%. However, the wet conditions are causing delays, and farmers are having to adapt to the challenging conditions.
Farmers are having to use half loads, work in the early morning when the ground is still frozen, and take extra precautions to avoid getting stuck. Despite the delays, farmers are persevering, knowing that they will get the harvest done eventually. As Peters said, “It’s not pretty, but it’s progress. You keep going.” The harvest may be tough, but the resolve and determination of Manitoba’s farmers will see them through.
The wet conditions are not just a challenge for farmers, but also for the equipment. The mud is causing damage to the machines, and the constant cleaning is taking a toll on the farmers’ energy. However, the yields are making it worth the fight, and farmers are finding ways to adapt to the conditions. As one farmer said, “You just accept it. We’ll get it cleaned, but not right away.”
The harvest may be difficult, but it’s a reminder that nature holds the final say. Each year brings a new test, and this fall, mud is the challenge. However, the farmers’ response to the challenge is what defines them. They improvise, endure, and keep faith that the next season will bring better balance. As Peters summed it up, “It’s not fun right now, but at least it’s a good crop.” The yield at the end of it all, the satisfaction of the last truckload, and the quiet pride of finishing another season make it worth the fight.